> WINTER GARDENS +

The South, United Kingdom
15-16th February 2018

Winter Gardens - A magical hit of colour and textural interest to lighten even the darkest, coldest days... We take take a look at two great examples and discover which plants offer the most spectacular winter interest.

> First up, Mottisfont House and gardens near Romsey. This historical priory and country estate is well worth a visit... but it's the winter interest garden that has brought us here today. Since 2010, this 1 acre garden has been pulling in the visitors. The specially curated collection of plants and trees glow brilliantly on the darkest days. Coloured winter bark from dogwood and ornamental bramble pop, while berries and early-flowering perennials provide contrast and detail. Unfortunately, we could not get into the galleries of the house due to overcrowding... we could have enjoyed the ingenious works of Heath Robinson.

 Dave takes shelter at Mottisfont - more views above.

  

After a night in Winchester staying at the Winchester Royal Hotel, we were ready for phase 2 of our adventures! On Friday the 16th we visited the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Formerly known as the Hillier Arboretum, this 72 hector site houses a wondrous collection of over 42,000 trees and shrubs. The jewel in the crown has to be the spectacular winter garden. With over 650 specimens, this garden has a variety of plants and trees that exhibit particular winter beauty. The colour, texture and impact are quite overwhelming. Hot fluorescents pop against delicate monotone papery barks and cool green/black grasses... beautiful!

Show-stopping Hellebores at the Hillier Gardens - more views above

On Friday eve we caught up with our chums Dave and Becky in Southampton. We were lucky enough to stumble upon the opening ceremony for the Cities brand new cultural hub. The £30m arts and theatre complex houses the Nuffield Southampton and John Hansard Gallery. We are looking forward to exploring this exciting new hot spot soon!

Lights, Camera. ACTION! - The Nuffield and John Hansard Gallery lift-off

9 out of 10